Trump to nominate McFarland ambassador to Singapore

President Donald Trump will nominate K.T. McFarland, formerly a deputy national security adviser, as ambassador to Singapore, the White House announced Friday.

"I am pleased to nominate K.T. McFarland to be Ambassador to Singapore, one of America’s great allies,” Trump said, according to a statement released by the press secretary's office.

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He added: ”While I am sorry to lose her, K.T.’s work in developing policies that put American interests first will have a lasting impact. She will remain an essential team member as she fulfills this new and important role.”

McFarland, who was hired as a deputy by embattled former national security adviser Michael Flynn, had been expected to depart from the National Security Council since April, but the move was reportedly shelved until a replacement was found.

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She will be succeeded by Rick Waddell, a former major general in the U.S. Army Reserve who has worked in the private sector for 17 years.

McFarland's departure solidifies national security adviser H.R. McMaster's control of his team, having reportedly previously sought to replace McFarland in the deputy role.